The Elements of Judaism

By Brian Lancaster

A concise introduction to this many-layered spiritual tradition, now adapting to the modern world. The author draws upon his experience of psychology as well as his own practice of Judaism, and explains the spiritual, psychological, historical and practical aspects of the faith. He addresses key issues, helping the reader to understand the message contained in nearly 400 years of Jewish experience. He unveils the meaning of the scriptures and explains the mythical aspects of Judaism, and by tackling contemporary topics such as the role of the feminine in Jewish tradition, explores the relevance and importance of Judaism today.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1852304022
• ISBN13: 9781852304027
• Release Date: January 1993
• Publisher: Element Books Ltd
• Weight: 0.37 lbs.
• Dimensions: 8.0" x 0.5" x 5.0"

Customer Reviews

A Brief Overview and Introduction

Dan Cohn-Sherbok's JUDIASM: RELIGIONS OF THE WORLD offers the student of comparative religion and/or Judaism a brief overview of crucial themes in Judaic belief and practice. The work consists of approximately 100 pages of text, followed by a glossary and pronunciation guide (both of which should be enormously helpful to novices). The book's strengths include the following: a) readers are given a strong introduction to Orthodox, Reform, Conservative, Reconstructionist, and Humanistic Judaism; and b) a chapter on contemporary observance takes the reader through religious practices. I would submit that the book would be even more helpful had it offered a more extensive discussion of historical Judaism and textual exegesis. However, the author did not seek to write a comprehensive history; that which is presented is solid, well-written, and student-friendly.

Very interesting reading on the search for truth!

Reading this book gives one the delightful sense of seeing a kaleidoscope in action or of seeing fractals unfold. In describing how truth is sought in letters, words, and texts, and how symbolism is applied and sought and re-applied, one starts to sense the joy and sheer intensity with which scholars probe the Torah for divine direction as well as hints about the nature of reality. These are material and insights I just would not have seen otherwise.